As successful as Sam Collier's spell as Royal Wootton Bassett Town Men's First Team manager has been, it sadly will not end with silverware

Collier's seven and a half year spell as manager was ended with a 2-1 defeat to Worcester Raiders in the semi finals of the Marsh Hellenic League Challenge Cup.

The defeat marked the fifth time that a Collier side has lost in a cup semi final - and the third such loss in this competition.

A shot at silverware was something that Collier and outgoing assistant manager Alan Griffin richly deserved for their efforts. Alas, it wasn't to be.

Raiders had led courtesy of a fine goal on the quarter hour mark from Jordan Murphy who lashed in from the edge of the box after being teed up by Jake Collins.

Bassett drew level ten minutes into the second half when Alfie Presley made it 27 goals for the season.

But parity didn't last long as Jordan Stoddart steered in after a scramble in the box.

Raiders could well have had a third when Murphy returned the favour to Collins for his earlier assist but the latter was unable to get the better of Adam House.

That meant Bassett were still firmly in the tie. However they were unable to find a way past Raiders 'keeper Charlie Emery again, a late leveller eluding Bassett as the visitors stayed ahead.

Bassett's season therefore ends in defeat; so near, yet so far again as their wait for another cup final appearance extends into a 25th season in which a new manager will be at the helm.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Saturday 12th April 2025 at 19:54